Asprin, Heart Disease Prevention, and Genetics
While large population studies show the benefits of aspirin, research shows that these heart-health benefits are dependent on your genes. Find out more and check your genetic raw data.
Heart Health
A healthy heart should be a priority for everyone! But where do you start?
These articles will show you where your genetic susceptibility lies, give you ideas of what may work best for prevention, and let you know what could be important to talk to your doctor about.
Start here:
- Look at your lipoprotein(a) genetic risk.
- Check out your LDL cholesterol genes.
- Be sure to check for mutations related to blood clots.
Check out the Heart Health Topic Summary Report for a quick overview of all your genetic variants related to heart health.
Latest articles about Heart Health:
PCSK9 Gene: Understanding the variants that cause high or low LDL cholesterol
There are several important variants in the PCSK9 gene. Some variants cause lower LDL-cholesterol and decrease the risk of heart disease by 2-fold. Other variants increase LDL-c and increase the risk of heart disease.
Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS3): Heart Health, Blood Pressure, and Healthy Aging
Nitric Oxide Synthase is an important signaling molecule in the endothelium of our blood vessels. It has roles in the regulation of blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, brain health, and more. Genetic variants in nitric oxide genes are important for a healthy heart. Find out how your genes could play a part in the interactions with cardiovascular disease risk and blood pressure.
Hypertension Risk Factor: CYP11B2 Variant
Hypertension risk can be modifiable in terms of diet and exercise however genetics can play a part in risk. Learn more about how the CYP11B2 variant can increase the risk of hypertension.
Triglycerides: Genes that cause high triglyceride levels
High triglycerides are linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Both genetics and diet combine to elevate triglyceride levels. Learn how your genes interact with what you eat to lower your triglycerides.
Plant Sterols for Lowering Cholesterol? Depends on Your Genes
Plant sterols are known as a ‘heart-healthy’ way to lower cholesterol. But, it turns out that they may only lower cholesterol only in people with certain genetic variants. Check your genes to see if adding plant sterols is worthwhile for you.
Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs): Genetics, Lifestyle, and Health Span
One cause of many of the diseases of aging is the buildup of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Your genes interact with your diet – and cooking methods – in the build-up of AGEs. Learn whether this is something that is important for you to focus on. (Member’s article)
BMAL1: Core circadian gene with links to heart disease, cancer, and diabetes
A core circadian rhythm gene, BMAL1, influences heart disease risk, diabetes, and cancer. Check your genes and learn how to mitigate the risk.
High Blood Pressure due to AGTR1 Gene Variants
There are several causes of high blood pressure. Genetic variants in the AGTR1 gene are strongly linked with blood pressure and there are specific lifestyle changes that should work to change your blood pressure if you carry the variants.
Will statins give you muscle pain?
Statins are one of the most prescribed medications in the world. One side effect of statins is myopathy, or muscle pain and weakness. Your genetic variants are significant in whether you are likely to have side effects from statins.
ITGB3: the PlA1/A2 variant and clotting
The PIA2 variant of the ITGB3 gene is linked to an increased risk of blood clots including stroke, heart attack, and DVT. But this variant also comes with a positive trade-off. Learn more with your genetic raw data.
Prothrombin: Blood Clot Risk
Genetic variants in the prothrombin gene increase the risk of blood clots (DVTs). Learn if you carry this risk factor for miscarriage, blood clots, and stroke.
HDL Levels Can Be Genetic
HDL cholesterol levels are considered to be about half due to genes with the rest due to diet, infection, etc. Learn more about the genetic variants that influence HDL cholesterol and how it affects heart health.
What can I learn on this website?
BookmarkOne recommendation often made for lowering cholesterol levels is to consume higher amounts of plant sterols. You can find plant sterols in supplements such as beta-sitosterol or spreads like Benecol or SmartBalance margarine. These butter alternatives are marketed as a heart-healthy way to help you lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular … Read more
High-fat Diet, High Blood Pressure, and the ACE Gene
Wondering if you should cut down on red meat and fat to lower your blood pressure? According to a new study, it could depend on your genes.